The Western Breach is a steep slope in the west of Kibo cone on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the most dangerous places on the mountain due to melting glaciers above the Western Breach. When the glaciers melt, they release rocks. The last reported lethal accident occurred in September 2015, as documented in this shocking eyewitness recount on National Geographic. While a well-trained and experienced guide may help you minimize your exposure to the most dangerous areas, the risk of death from rockfall cannot be avoided entirely when climbing the Western Breach.

Sadly, many tour operators keep promoting the Western Breach route without educating climbers about the risk involved. On first glance, the route definitely has its appeals to everyone looking for an ultimate adventure away from the crowds as it is one of the fastest and most challenging ascents to the summit – and off-the-beaten-track for that reason. However, there are plenty of other routes that do not include the Western Breach and are equally off-the-beaten-track, and – even though not recommended due to the increased risk of altitude sickness – might also get you to the summit and back down within the same time.

The Western Breach is also often included in itineraries with an overnight stay at Crater Camp. However, you can also include the Crater Camp with any other route – ideally the Lemosho Route, Northern Circuit or Grand Traverse. These routes allow you more time to acclimatize before staying overnight at the Crater Camp and approach the summit via a much safer ascent in the east of Kibo cone.

We do not recommend ascending via the Western Breach, due to its unnecessary and avoidable risks without giving any benefits other than the thrill of its risks. If you are not convinced yet, please make sure to read James Balog’s eyewitness account about the 2015 deadly rockfall incident on National Geographic: Tragedy on Kilimanjaro.

If after educating yourself thoroughly about the risks involved you still wish to ascend to the summit via the Western Breach, please make sure to only book with a responsible tour operator who can provide you with a well-trained and experienced guide and porters.

Please send us an inquiry and we will advice your safest options for a private climb. As it is important that all group members are of roughly equal physical abilities and mountain experience in order to minimize your risks when climbing the Western Breach, please also note that in no case will a responsible climb company operate open group climbs for the Western Breach, and we will not operate any open group climbs for you.